Talismanic Swift signs for another year

Connacht’s most capped player Michael Swift has re-signed with the province for another year.

The veteran lock of more than 220 appearances has become a talismanic figure for the province since moving from England in 2000.

Although in the twilight of his career, the 36-years-old’s experience will be crucial next season, particularly with the loss of Mike McCarthy to Leinster. However CEO Tom Sears says he hopes to be in a position soon to announce a new second row.

Incoming coach Pat Lam is also involved in player recruitment for next season, in addition to the composition of the coaching staff.

Defence coach Mike Foreshaw will return to England as he had planned after his three years contract is complete, while head physiotherapist Keith Fox is leaving to take up a position with the national squad. With Sears reiterating that Connacht need continuity in the coaching set-up, it is hoped current assistants Dan McFarland and Billy Millard will continue.

This week Connacht agreed player contracts with Fionn Carr from Leinster and Sean Henry from Munster.

Carr, now 27, returns to the province after two seasons with Leinster where his playing time was resticted to 25 starts. Now it is hoped Carr can recapture the form that earned him the title of Connacht’s leading try scorer.

Sligo-born Sean Henry is no stranger to the province having represented Connacht at youths and u-20 level before moving to Limerick. The 26-years-old came to prominence in Munster when playing for UL Bohs, earning him a place in the Munster Academy in 2010. On a development contract, he has featured in Munster’s British & Irish Cup side and has six caps for the senior side.